Search
Search results
AT (1676 KP) rated Convenience Store Woman in Books
Feb 4, 2020
Convenience Store Woman is a weird little novel. Granted, Americans have a very different culture than the Japanese when it comes to marriage and jobs. This story follows a strange woman during her years of working at a convenience store, which she loves and does well at. However, the way she is viewed puts stress and panic on her to fit in with society. The story, itself, is quirky, but the main character is an odd duck, herself. Plus, if you're the type of reader that loves to hate characters, this book definitely has one for you!
Obsessed book reviews (49 KP) rated Havoc (Moonshine Task Force #3) in Books
Feb 23, 2019
fantastic read
This is the third book in this series by this author. This book has the perfect mixture of sweet and sexy. The characters are really well written and you will feel connected to both of them. This is a marriage of convenience between the characters. This book is easy to read, flows really well, has some action and loads of steam. I can't wait to read more from this author and this series in the future.
Highly recommended series
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book
www.obsessedbookreviews.blogspot.com
Highly recommended series
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book
www.obsessedbookreviews.blogspot.com
Obsessed book reviews (49 KP) rated Accidentally Yours in Books
Feb 23, 2019
fantastic read
This is a quick read story but the author has packed a lot into the pages. This is a marriage of convenience romance story with an added twist or two along the way. The characters are so lovable, you just fall in love with them from the beginning. This book is beautifully written and the story was easy to get into. I can't wait to read more from this author in the future.
Highly recommended read
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book
www.obsessedbookreviews.blogspot.com
Highly recommended read
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book
www.obsessedbookreviews.blogspot.com
TravelersWife4Life (31 KP) rated Practically Married in Books
Feb 23, 2021
I thought that the premise of this book was great! A modern day marriage of convenience/ almost Mail order bride type of story. I dont believe I have ever read a modern marriage of convenience story. It created for me lots of what ifs in my mind, which I like as the story tends to stick with me even after its done.
The characters were believable. I liked how they played off each other, and built off of each interaction. Personally I have no idea what I would do if I showed up somewhere and was told that my fiancee had died. Ashley handled it very well though, and Russ is my kinda guy. A planner who likes everything to fit in a box. So like I said at the beginning I like how the characters play together and I think Karin Beery did a great job developing them through out the story. Her book reminds me of Linda Fords books in that they have such interesting story lines and great characters with HEA’s in each story.
I give this book 4 out of 5 stars for the very interesting story premise, the likeable characters, and for making it stick in my mind even after I am done with the book. I look forward to reading more from Karin Beery in the future.
The characters were believable. I liked how they played off each other, and built off of each interaction. Personally I have no idea what I would do if I showed up somewhere and was told that my fiancee had died. Ashley handled it very well though, and Russ is my kinda guy. A planner who likes everything to fit in a box. So like I said at the beginning I like how the characters play together and I think Karin Beery did a great job developing them through out the story. Her book reminds me of Linda Fords books in that they have such interesting story lines and great characters with HEA’s in each story.
I give this book 4 out of 5 stars for the very interesting story premise, the likeable characters, and for making it stick in my mind even after I am done with the book. I look forward to reading more from Karin Beery in the future.
Merissa (12394 KP) rated Landscape of a Marriage in Books
Aug 2, 2021 (Updated Jul 17, 2023)
LANDSCAPE OF A MARRIAGE is a historical fiction story based on true events and people. In fact, the author is distantly related to one of the main characters by marriage.
Instead of focusing on the man himself, we follow his wife, Mary, and see their life through her eyes. They had good times and, undeniably, bad times too. Mary fell in love with her husband of convenience, and he, with her. That led them to a life of adventure and hardship, love and loss.
This was a great read, full of freeze-frame moments, stuck in time. The emotions come across clearly and help move this character-driven story forward. Some of the real-life events were glossed over slightly and I would have liked to have known more, but then, was Mary involved in them anyway?
I will admit to getting lost in the times given. I relied on Mary to tell me that Marion had grown, or that John was now forty-one, as there was no way I would remember from just seeing dates at the beginning of each chapter.
This was a historical fiction novel that I enjoyed and have no hesitation in recommending.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Aug 2, 2021
Instead of focusing on the man himself, we follow his wife, Mary, and see their life through her eyes. They had good times and, undeniably, bad times too. Mary fell in love with her husband of convenience, and he, with her. That led them to a life of adventure and hardship, love and loss.
This was a great read, full of freeze-frame moments, stuck in time. The emotions come across clearly and help move this character-driven story forward. Some of the real-life events were glossed over slightly and I would have liked to have known more, but then, was Mary involved in them anyway?
I will admit to getting lost in the times given. I relied on Mary to tell me that Marion had grown, or that John was now forty-one, as there was no way I would remember from just seeing dates at the beginning of each chapter.
This was a historical fiction novel that I enjoyed and have no hesitation in recommending.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Aug 2, 2021
TravelersWife4Life (31 KP) rated A Cowboy for Keeps (Colorado Cowboys, #1) in Books
Feb 24, 2021
Great start to this new series by Jody Hedlund!
I’ll be honest. I am a sucker for a good western story. Probably something to do with my love of that era, and Jody Hedlund brought it to life in the most adventurous of ways, through a marriage of convenience story! I liked Greta from the first page until the end, watching her grow through the story was touching. Wyatt was deep. I loved his nature and his thought process he had good insight, and a good sense of humor at times. Overall, the story is just what I needed to sit back, relax, and know that I was in for a good ride. Plus, have I mentioned the GORGEOUS cover? It is even better in person. I am really looking forward to where Jody Hedlund will take this series next.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
I’ll be honest. I am a sucker for a good western story. Probably something to do with my love of that era, and Jody Hedlund brought it to life in the most adventurous of ways, through a marriage of convenience story! I liked Greta from the first page until the end, watching her grow through the story was touching. Wyatt was deep. I loved his nature and his thought process he had good insight, and a good sense of humor at times. Overall, the story is just what I needed to sit back, relax, and know that I was in for a good ride. Plus, have I mentioned the GORGEOUS cover? It is even better in person. I am really looking forward to where Jody Hedlund will take this series next.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
PIPKAT (4 KP) rated Married by Monday (The Weekday Brides #2) in Books
Mar 4, 2022
<b>POV:</b> Multiple. <spoiler>Carter and Eliza (Lisa) are the main POVs, but we also have short passages in the POV of supporting characters. I'm not normally a fan of other POVs, but Bybee did well to keep them short and for plot progression.</spoiler>
<b>Descriptive Sex:</b> Yes. <spoiler>Not super descriptive, but there are steamy scenes.</spoiler>
<b>OW/OM:</b> No.
<b>Separation:</b> No.
<b>Content Warnings:</b> mention of rape and murder.
<b>★★★★</b>
I've been craving a hidden identity / witness protection romance, and this has satisfied that need. It's exactly what I wanted with the added bonus of marriage of convenience. There were one or two parts that I skimmed over because it was not of interest to me <spoiler>(particularly the political speeches and the scene with Agent Anderson, but that's really a me problem not a book one)</spoiler>, but Carter and Eliza are everything I want in a couple. The banter, the reassurances, and the trust. It was a pleasure to read.
This was my first time reading Bybee, but it will not be my last.
<b>Descriptive Sex:</b> Yes. <spoiler>Not super descriptive, but there are steamy scenes.</spoiler>
<b>OW/OM:</b> No.
<b>Separation:</b> No.
<b>Content Warnings:</b> mention of rape and murder.
<b>★★★★</b>
I've been craving a hidden identity / witness protection romance, and this has satisfied that need. It's exactly what I wanted with the added bonus of marriage of convenience. There were one or two parts that I skimmed over because it was not of interest to me <spoiler>(particularly the political speeches and the scene with Agent Anderson, but that's really a me problem not a book one)</spoiler>, but Carter and Eliza are everything I want in a couple. The banter, the reassurances, and the trust. It was a pleasure to read.
This was my first time reading Bybee, but it will not be my last.
TravelersWife4Life (31 KP) rated An Unlikely Proposal in Books
Feb 24, 2021
Let me say this book definitely surpassed all my expectations!!
I know we've all been there... that isle of books at the store with the Harlequin titles trying to decide if we want another feel good, know how its gonna end type of story. LET me advise you. This book IS NOT your typical Love Inspired book (of which I will admit to reading ... almost everyone published). I had to do a double check of the page count with this one honestly. Toni Shiloh managed to fit SO much depth of character, layered background, and faith based elements that I was enamored of the book from the beginning and scratching my head wondering how something so marvelous could come out of such a tiny package!
I loved the plot, a true friends-to-lovers/ girl-next-door/ marriage of convenience story that I have.. uhem already reread. I loved Omar's little ones that Toni Shiloh filled with life and love. Plus, I really enjoyed the circumstance that Toni Shiloh put Trinity and Omar into! Great chemistry and awkwardness between the two of them.
Overall, one of my favorite reads ever in terms of modern character development and storyline. A definite 5 star read you DO NOT want to miss!
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
I know we've all been there... that isle of books at the store with the Harlequin titles trying to decide if we want another feel good, know how its gonna end type of story. LET me advise you. This book IS NOT your typical Love Inspired book (of which I will admit to reading ... almost everyone published). I had to do a double check of the page count with this one honestly. Toni Shiloh managed to fit SO much depth of character, layered background, and faith based elements that I was enamored of the book from the beginning and scratching my head wondering how something so marvelous could come out of such a tiny package!
I loved the plot, a true friends-to-lovers/ girl-next-door/ marriage of convenience story that I have.. uhem already reread. I loved Omar's little ones that Toni Shiloh filled with life and love. Plus, I really enjoyed the circumstance that Toni Shiloh put Trinity and Omar into! Great chemistry and awkwardness between the two of them.
Overall, one of my favorite reads ever in terms of modern character development and storyline. A definite 5 star read you DO NOT want to miss!
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
BookwormMama14 (18 KP) rated The Painter's Daughter in Books
Jan 2, 2019
When Sophie is betrayed by the man she loves, she is forced to choose between living a respectable life and living for love. Will she be able to find love and acceptance on the path she has chosen?
Sophie Dupont is not only the daughter of a painter, but an accomplished artist herself. Although, she does not see the value in her work. When Wesley Overtree sweeps in and captures Sophie's love, she is sure he will marry her. But when he leaves her in a dire predicament, she has no one to turn to. Captain Stephen Overtree has become accustomed to picking up the pieces after his brother, but will he be able to rescue Sophie? With Wesley gone, and no promise of return or marriage, Sophie accepts Captain Overtree's proposal of marriage, in name only. Although her heart longs for his brother, she is grateful for the opportunity to save her reputation and give her child a fresh start in life. Will a marriage that is based on convenience ever have a chance at true love? Or will fate intervene and prevent the chance for love to bloom at all?
I have to be completely honest, it took me quite awhile to get into this book. All of the other books that I have read by Julie Klassen have sucked me right in and I devoured them like candy. But once I got about half way through The Painter's Daughter I was really beginning to enjoy it! There is a lot (and I mean A LOT) of tension throughout the story. Sophie being married to one Overtree, but in love with another for example. I found myself holding my breath through more than one scene. There are many supporting characters that I found to be quite entertaining and endearing. The message of sin, repentance and redemption is very clear within the pages of this book. It is a good reminder to live life to the fullest, but to be careful of the path we choose. We will have to live with the consequences, whatever the choices we choose. Overall this was a very good book, not my favorite by Julie Klassen (that would be The Secret of Pembrooke Park), but still an excellent story.
I received a free digital copy of The Painter's Daughter from Bethany House Publishers through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Sophie Dupont is not only the daughter of a painter, but an accomplished artist herself. Although, she does not see the value in her work. When Wesley Overtree sweeps in and captures Sophie's love, she is sure he will marry her. But when he leaves her in a dire predicament, she has no one to turn to. Captain Stephen Overtree has become accustomed to picking up the pieces after his brother, but will he be able to rescue Sophie? With Wesley gone, and no promise of return or marriage, Sophie accepts Captain Overtree's proposal of marriage, in name only. Although her heart longs for his brother, she is grateful for the opportunity to save her reputation and give her child a fresh start in life. Will a marriage that is based on convenience ever have a chance at true love? Or will fate intervene and prevent the chance for love to bloom at all?
I have to be completely honest, it took me quite awhile to get into this book. All of the other books that I have read by Julie Klassen have sucked me right in and I devoured them like candy. But once I got about half way through The Painter's Daughter I was really beginning to enjoy it! There is a lot (and I mean A LOT) of tension throughout the story. Sophie being married to one Overtree, but in love with another for example. I found myself holding my breath through more than one scene. There are many supporting characters that I found to be quite entertaining and endearing. The message of sin, repentance and redemption is very clear within the pages of this book. It is a good reminder to live life to the fullest, but to be careful of the path we choose. We will have to live with the consequences, whatever the choices we choose. Overall this was a very good book, not my favorite by Julie Klassen (that would be The Secret of Pembrooke Park), but still an excellent story.
I received a free digital copy of The Painter's Daughter from Bethany House Publishers through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Merissa (12394 KP) rated The Freedom of Loving (Matters of the Heart #3) in Books
Feb 7, 2023
THE FREEDOM OF LOVING is the third book in the Matters of the Heart series and it's time for Jared and Sam to shine. Both of them appear in book 2 (Robert and Niall) and, this book runs concurrently in places, so I really would recommend you read at least that one first. I haven't read book 1 (Garrett and Presley) yet but it will be done, I promise you!
Jared is in a marriage of convenience... but not for much longer. He's put up with a lot from his wife but her latest trick is one step too far. Once his divorce is final, he'll be free to be with Sam, the man he has loved for years. Sam returns that love but refuses to be the other man. There is a little angst as Jared mistimes certain revelations but nothing too serious.
Oh, if anyone needs to be together, it's these two. The chemistry is there in spades on every page they share. But it's not all hot and heavy, it's full of emotions too. They are there for each other, and there for their found family, including horrible situations with parents that others simply may not understand.
I found the pacing to be perfect for their story. It moved along nicely without being bogged down anywhere. There isn't a single thing I would change. This is a hug-in-a-book and definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jared is in a marriage of convenience... but not for much longer. He's put up with a lot from his wife but her latest trick is one step too far. Once his divorce is final, he'll be free to be with Sam, the man he has loved for years. Sam returns that love but refuses to be the other man. There is a little angst as Jared mistimes certain revelations but nothing too serious.
Oh, if anyone needs to be together, it's these two. The chemistry is there in spades on every page they share. But it's not all hot and heavy, it's full of emotions too. They are there for each other, and there for their found family, including horrible situations with parents that others simply may not understand.
I found the pacing to be perfect for their story. It moved along nicely without being bogged down anywhere. There isn't a single thing I would change. This is a hug-in-a-book and definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!